2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1961 Fiat 2300
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 2300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 2300 would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 2300. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 2300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 236 kg more than 1961 Fiat 2300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 2300 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 Fiat 2300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 2300. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 2300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1961 Fiat 2300 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 2300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 2277 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
